Morung Express News
Dimapur | April 18
The Aggrieved Teachers Association of Nagaland (ATAN) today launched an indefinite hunger strike outside the premises of DEO office in Dimapur. About 480 members from Dimapur and Niuland participated during the agitation in a bid to voice out their 3-years-old grievances. The ATAN members also signed an undertaking today in relation to the protest.
Pregnant mothers and mother with their toddlers were also present at the agitation. An executive member of the association said we are taking care of members who are pregnant and those who have brought their ‘babies’.
Also, Some ATAN members from other districts participated at the agitation as a sign of “moral support”, said an executive member of ATAN.
Interacting with some of the aggrieved teachers, it was revealed that they are confused what to do with their career. One of the members said earlier she was working in Delhi but she left the job since she got through the ‘exam and interview for teacher post’, however, now she is caught in the middle and not sure about the next step for her career.
A mother of three lamented: “I am fed up of lying to my children that I would get them this or that after I get my salary. I don’t think they believe me anymore.”
She said her family members were so happy when she got the job but within a short time their happiness was taken away.
Till the filing of this protest, it has been informed that the ATAN members have camped outside the DEO office. A member over the phone has also confirmed that the aggrieved teachers are sleeping outside and would continue the agitation; keeping their vows firm, the members have not broken their fast.
Also, an executive member has confirmed that all the members have stayed back including the pregnant mothers and those who have brought their ‘babies’ too. He also said IRB personnel are on duty around the premises.
